The Ford Focus 1.8 Turbo DI, produced between 1999 and 2005, represented an entry-level diesel offering within the first generation (Mk1) Focus range. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, it catered to buyers prioritizing economy over outright performance. This variant, powered by the C9DC engine family, was available in both 3-door and 5-door hatchback configurations and played a significant role in establishing the Focus as a popular choice in the European market. While not a performance leader, the 1.8 Turbo DI offered a compelling blend of affordability and usability, making it a common sight on European roads.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Generation | Focus Hatchback I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 Turbo DI (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.1 kg/Hp, 76.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 51.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | C9DC, C9DA, C9DB |
| Engine displacement | 1753 cm3 (106.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1183 kg (2608.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1710 kg (3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 527 kg (1161.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1210 l (42.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4152 mm (163.46 in.) |
| Width | 1698 mm (66.85 in.) |
| Height | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2615 mm (102.95 in.) |
| Front track | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1477 mm (58.15 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Focus 1.8 Turbo DI is the C9DC engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilized direct fuel injection, a relatively advanced technology for its time, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The ‘DI’ designation stands for Direct Injection. The engine featured an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output, bringing it to 90 horsepower. The engine codes C9DA, C9DB, and C9DC represent minor variations within the same engine family. The transmission was a five-speed manual, chosen for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. While an automatic transmission was available on other Focus variants, it wasn’t offered with the 1.8 Turbo DI, emphasizing the model’s focus on economy and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8 Turbo DI Focus offered a practical, if not exhilarating, driving experience. With 90 horsepower and 200 Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration was modest, taking around 12.4 seconds to reach 62 mph. However, the engine’s torque delivery was relatively strong from low RPMs, making it suitable for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to effectively utilize the engine’s powerband. Compared to the higher-output petrol versions of the Focus, the 1.8 Turbo DI prioritized fuel economy and usability over outright speed. The manual gearbox provided a more engaging driving experience than the automatic transmissions found in other Focus models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8 Turbo DI typically came with a basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, ABS brakes, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat spartan, design. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and alloy wheels. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but the 1.8 Turbo DI generally represented the most affordable route into Focus ownership.
Chassis & Braking
The Mk1 Focus boasted a well-regarded chassis, known for its responsive handling and comfortable ride. The 1.8 Turbo DI variant utilized a wishbone front suspension and a coil spring rear suspension. Front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while rear brakes were solid discs. The suspension setup was tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling, making the car enjoyable to drive on a variety of road surfaces. The weight distribution was reasonably well-balanced, contributing to the car’s predictable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Focus 1.8 Turbo DI was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice. It was praised for its fuel efficiency and usable performance. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy and lacked the refinement of some of its competitors. Compared to the petrol-powered Focus variants, the 1.8 Turbo DI offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. Compared to other diesel-powered Focus models, such as the 1.9 TDI, it offered a lower price point but also less power and torque.
Legacy
The Ford Focus 1.8 Turbo DI has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, with many examples still on the road today. The C9DC engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance is essential to prevent issues. Common problems include turbocharger wear and injector issues. In the used car market, the 1.8 Turbo DI Focus represents an affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient hatchback. Its simplicity and relatively low running costs make it an attractive choice for those on a budget. While it may not offer the performance or refinement of more modern vehicles, the Focus 1.8 Turbo DI remains a testament to Ford’s commitment to building practical and reliable cars.
